“I’m sorry.”
He smiled. “You really are aren’t you?”
“I am. It’s terrible that you went through that without some kind of support from people you care about.”I would have waited. What woman would desert a man when he needed her the most?
“It’s been a few years and she’s matured a little more.”
If he thinks so. Tammy resisted the urge to show her disagreement. It was the subtle hints the woman was giving off; the touching, flattering, and the veiled condescension toward her.
“She has expressed interest on getting back together again.”
She was certain it was physically impossible for her heart to fall at her feet, but it sure felt like it. “And?”
Now he looked stunned.
“I meant, when this is over.” She waved her hand at nothing in particular.
“Over?”
She felt her face heat up. Was she being clueless, or was he? “The faux engagement.”
“Just the engagement?” he repeated not believing her at all.
Obviously he could tell that’s not what she meant. Again, he was being way too insightful for her comfort. “Okay, you and me.”
“Seriously Tam?”
She took a deep breath and released it quickly in exasperation. “Forgive me Lance. I don’t know how this all works.” She fought to keep her eyes from watering. The idea of ending this just didn’t sit well with her and he never gave her any indication that he was interested in keeping it going.
“Well, Jesus, neither do I. We’re moving really fast.”
Her mouth fell open. Seriously? Fast? She’d been in love with this man for five years.
“Hey.” He reached over and took her hand. “Tam, look at me.”
She hadn’t realized that her gaze fell to the table cloth. She did as he asked.
“I’m not tossing you aside for Marianne. It’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard. She’s a very self-centered woman, even though her intentions with my charity are well founded.”
“You introduced me as a friend.”
“I told you why. She’s possessive. I didn’t want her to make your evening uncomfortable at the charity event. You’ve already dealt with enough from your mother and Richard.”
Oh why didn’t she see that he was looking out for her? Her heart swelled. “I’m sorry. I can be stupid.”
“You’re not the least bit stupid, but I forget on how naïve you are despite your profession. I’m also surprised at this sudden insecurity though. You’ve always radiated confidence.”
“Yes, I’ve always been secure with my body image, my job, and my intelligence, but that was before—well, before you and me.” She’d opened herself up like she’d never done before. She felt he could see right to her bones, her heart, and into her mind. It was unsettling, but she was fighting to be brave and trust that he wouldn’t hurt her.
He thought about that for a moment. “I understand.”
Of course he did. She’d opened herself up to someone for the first time in her life, not just physically, but emotionally as well. It left her completely exposed. He could really do some damage if he wanted to. She was trusting him not to. It wasn’t like her to trust someone so freely.
“Something you should know about me. She left me and I don’t chase after women.”
Of course he didn’t. He didn’t have to. They fell at his feet.
“I also don’t give second chances.”
